Fishbone Stitch

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Learn how to do fishbone stitch. Nature has a way of providing designs and detail that are so inspiring to the experienced and the beginner embroiderer. Fishbone stitch is one of those simple, but very effective stitches that capture the shape and delicate form of leaves, feathers and other parts of a picture you may need to use a filling stitch with some texture and character.

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The beauty of the fishbone stitch is that it automatically creates a ridge down the center of the design that resembles the vein of a leaf or the center of a delicate feather without having to add that detail separately.

Sewing Fishbone stitch - preparation

Prepare your design with an outline and a centerline to mark the middle of your stitching. I drew a leaf shape and marked the center vein.

The fishbone stitch is created between these points and once you get going you will be amazed at how beautiful it looks.

If you are new to sewing embroidery, read my article on how to embroider.

This stitch like most other embroidery stitches is best done in a hoop or frame to hold the fabric tight. The frame can be small and can be moved around on a larger piece of fabric.

I have used a 6 strand embroidery floss for my samples. If you want a finer look, you can use fewer strands. Obviously, it will take you longer to sew with a thinner thread but embroidery is a relaxing hobby so this may suit your patience level.

Embroidery needles should suit the fabric you are using and the thickness of your thread. Read all about types of hand sewing needles.

How to do Fishbone Stitch Embroidery

Step 1 - Start the Vein

Bring your needle and thread out at point (1) near the top tip of the design. Point (1) lies directly on your center line.

Put the needle through the point (2) to make a single small, straight stitch. Point (2) lies at the very tip of your design.

fishbone stitch step 1 — Fishbone Stitch - Step 1

Step 2 - Point of Leaf

Bring the needle out at point (3) close to the first incision and along the outline.

fishbone stitch step 2 — *Fishbone Stitch - Step 2*

Take the needle to the left of the center line (4) and exit at (5) which is on the outer line. The stitch points on the outer line must be close together to stop visible spaces forming along the design.

fishbone stitch step 3 — *Fishbone Stitch - Step 2*

From now you will be stitching to the left and right of the center line and never directly on it. This forms the ridged edge in the center.

fishbone stitch step 3a — *Fishbone Stitch - Step 2*

Step 3 - Start Crossing Over

Cross the needle on the right side of the center line. Insert at (6) and exit at (7) which is on the outer line.

fishbone stitch embroidery step 4 — *Fishbone Stitch - Step 3*

When you pull the needle through you will see how the center stitches cross over each other.

fishbone stitch embroidery step 4a — *Fishbone Stitch - Step 3*

Step 4 - Repeat

Repeat all the way down the leaf.

Remember to have a long thread available because this design uses more thread than you expect.

Here is the completed leaf.

Alternatives to Fishbone Stitch

Fishbone stitch is mainly used to create leaves and is one of the best options if you like a very solid look. The overlapping center mimics the veins of the leaves and creates quite realistic representations. You can also use satin stitch although it doesn't have the texture and realism that fishbone stitch has. Fly stitch can be used to create the veins of leaves and backstitch can be used for outlining. Read more about embroidery leaves and other great options. If you are looking for some flowers to add to your fishbone stitch leaves, read my article on embroidery flowers and embroidery roses.